Ukrainian Bio Labs — More Than “Russian Disinformation?”

Concerns about American biological laboratories in Ukraine and other post-Soviet republics can no longer be considered exclusively ‘Russian disinformation.’

Are these facilities truly defensive public health institutions, or have some evolved into something far more dangerous under the veil of “biosecurity” and international bioweapons threat reduction cooperation?

Are these facilities truly defensive public health institutions, or have some evolved into something far more dangerous under the veil of “biosecurity” and international bioweapons threat reduction cooperation?

Now let’s dive deeper into one of the most controversial and heavily disputed aspects of the global biological research network — the U.S.-funded laboratories established across Ukraine and other former Soviet republics.

For years, allegations and recriminations surrounding these laboratories were dismissed in Western media and so-called fact-checking sites as “Russian disinformation” or conspiracy theory. Yet recent developments inside the United States intelligence community suggest that at least some of these concerns are now being taken seriously at the highest levels.

Reports that the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, under Tulsi Gabbard, has opened inquiries into more than 120 U.S.-funded biological laboratories operating overseas, investigating at least 30, according to Newsweek..

This moment represents more than political controversy coming to a head. It is personal vindication — proof before my children, peers, and critics that I was right all along, and confirmation for those who risked their jobs helping me by providing internal documents, design and redesign plans, punch lists, and evidence suggesting covert gain-of-function research.

What has been especially revealing in my work has been documenting the misuse of US public funds, uncovering ‘slush funds’ at the Lugar Lab in Tbilisi, Georgia, disguised as medical translations, and how this facility used publicly funded health programs for sinister purposes. I have been attacked on many fronts, in the media and physically, as a result of my work over the years.

Coincidence or not, one of my former sources, the former head of external security for the Lugar Lab in Tbilisi, was killed in a highly suspect car accident in the wake of the journalistic investigation. I don’t think it was an accident, but the truth will never be known.

Regardless, the recently announced US investigation about biolabs worldwide raises fundamental questions about transparency, accountability, dual-use biological research, and whether offensive capabilities........

© New Eastern Outlook